Sascha Schwarz is a researcher dedicated to aiding his university, Technical University of Munich (TUM), to foster innovation as CTO of TUM Venture Labs. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we explore diverse startups, the challenges faced by scientists transitioning into entrepreneurial roles, and the incubation of new ventures. Topics include technology transfers, development, and the essential qualities of a successful startup. This conversation is a must-listen for university professionals looking to commercialize technology and for entrepreneurs seeking to gain valuable insights from Sascha’s expertise.

Tim Simpson is an advisor to NASA, Professor Emeritus at Penn State, and a consultant for Xact Metal. He is also associated with The Barnes Global Advisors, among numerous other engagements. In this episode of the 3DPOD, our discussion delves into defense, space, and the future of additive manufacturing, exploring critical topics such as commoditization, drones, and advancements in software. It’s an engaging conversation for anyone keen to understand the current state and trajectory of additive technology.

Jim Harrison is a true 3D printing veteran. Currently working at MELD Manufacturing, he has also contributed his expertise to nScrypt, Cimquest, and other notable organizations. As a co-founder of one of the world’s first service bureaus and an early pioneer in vat polymerization for medical devices, he operated one of the earliest vat polymerization printers at Pratt & Whitney. Jim’s insights and vision not only highlight the evolution of additive manufacturing but also underscore the progress made over decades in the industry.

Trent Esser founded Printerior with his partners and has since pivoted and redefined the company’s focus multiple times. Printerior operates as a 3D printing service that both sells and recycles filament. The company employs a diverse range of equipment, including inexpensive desktop machines, Bambu Lab systems, and large-format printers.

Despite producing hundreds of thousands of parts, Printerior has chosen to forgo powder bed fusion, instead focusing on material extrusion. This approach allows the company to remain more fluid and flexible than many of its competitors. In my view, Printerior represents a vanguard reshaping how 3D printing services are delivered.

Harshil Goel founded Dyndrite as a kernel designed for 3D printing. While this core technology remains available for OEMs and software firms, the company now also offers a tool that provides users with greater control over laser operations and settings. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Harshil explains what Dyndrite does and how it is being utilized. We discuss innovative approaches to using, modifying, and adapting settings, as well as methods to accelerate manufacturing processes. Faster build rates and enhanced performance customization are among the topics covered in our conversation.

Pan Michaleris has been working in finite element analysis (FEA) and related fields for decades. As a professor, he contributed significantly to the discipline and later developed CUBES, which was eventually acquired by Autodesk. The CUBES simulation tool is now a key component of Fusion. Since, Pan has established another company, Pan Optimization, whose primary product, PanX, is designed to transform how FEA is conducted. The tool is optimized to run on standard desktop machines, enabling users to perform many more FEA jobs on a wider range of parts. Pan also brings his own unique vision for running and building a business, which I think is a crucial aspect of this episode of the 3DPOD.

In this episode of the 3DPOD, Cassidy Silbernagel, Head of AM Engineering at Exergy Solutions, takes some time to discuss design for additive manufacturing (AM) and 3D printing, with a strong focus on the energy industry. He explains why oil and gas represent a major growth area for AM, covering the industry’s standards, motivations, and the types of parts being 3D printed. Cassidy dives into materials like Inconel, highlighting their importance to these companies, and provides insights into the manufacturing process for these components.

The episode also introduces Exergy, a company with both design and manufacturing expertise, enabling it to manage part production for clients effectively. Notably, Exergy owns the first Wayland Additive machine, which places it in a unique position within the energy sector. This episode will be valuable not only for those in the energy business but also for other specialized firms looking to achieve similar success through deep expertise and a tailored approach to client needs.

Lincoln Electric is a storied, large company in welding. The company collaborated with Oak Ridge National Laboratory to develop a welding technology that is now actively used in production. Lincoln Electric manufactures oil and gas pressure vessels, industrial components, and submarine parts. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Mark Douglass, Business Development Manager for Lincoln Electric Additive Solutions, shares insights about the company’s journey in additive manufacturing and its growth ambitions. Lincoln Electric utilizes Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), and Mark explains when this technology is the optimal choice and when it is not. The sheer size of the objects Lincoln produces—ranging into the thousands of pounds—is truly impressive. This podcast will likely inspire many to take a closer look at WAAM.

Janet Dickinson entered 3D printing after a career spanning over 25 years in IT and Operations. She joined Endeavor 3D as its CRO and now serves as the COO of the additive manufacturing-focused contract manufacturer. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we talk to Janet about operations, efficiency, price calculations, and production optimization. Endeavor 3D has a significant number of Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) systems, so we also discuss MJF technology. Additionally, the company is an early adopter of HP’s MetalJet, giving us the opportunity to learn how that process is progressing and where they see opportunities in binder jetting and with the MetalJet system. Janet also shares her insights on the future of contract manufacturing and 3D printing in a candid and informative discussion for anyone involved in manufacturing with 3D printing.

Greg Hayes is the senior vice president of EOS’ Additive Minds. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we have a broad discussion about additive manufacturing, the future, and what needs to be done to bring it about. We learn about training, people, machines, and all the components of a 3D-printed future. Greg also shares some of his personal experiences, making for a great episode.